Yes, you don’t need to be a U.S. citizen or a resident to be able to purchase a property in the United States. There is no citizenship requirement for real estate sales that would restrict purchasing. In fact, there is a notable amount of foreign commercial and residential property investments within the United States.
However, when financing a purchase, foreigners may face different and more stringent requirements and a more complex evaluation process than U.S. citizens if they seek a mortgage. It is important to be aware of all the requirements before making a decision. If the property is to be paid by cash and the funds are ready, it is possible to avoid those challenges.
When making a property purchase overseas, we recommend that you take the time to do research based on your incentives and expectations. With a growing economy and opportunities, the U.S. is an appealing choice to investors. If you are making a purchase as an investment in the States, it is essential that you analyze the area and the potential performance of the property concerning the return of investment.
Even if you are purchasing a property as a secondary, vacation, or retirement house for yourself or your family, we still encourage you to consider visiting the property in person to understand what you are buying and getting in return. By going for a site visit, you can understand the amenities being offered as well as the qualities and needs of the property to be purchased to prevent any unpleasant surprises.
Another vital portion of investing in a property in the U.S. is to be aware of the tax laws and regulations it brings. After all, once you have purchased a property, it is important to comply with the responsibilities that the property brings. As a foreigner, we recommend that you understand the taxes you might be subject to thoroughly beforehand; therefore, it is important to be mindful of such consequences to prevent a dramatic burden later on.
If you are receiving income from your property, you will also need to report your income on a U.S. income tax return and pay your taxes. Depending on the location, additional local regulations and taxes may apply.
If you decide to sell the property later, you should be aware that you may be subject to federal income tax withholding and make your decision accordingly. In most cases, non-residents are subject to %15 withholding tax on the gross sales price of the U.S. property to be sold unless exceptions apply.
Considering the complexity of the U.S. tax system, it is recommended that you seek professional assistance well in advance of making a purchase decision. Call us at 404-900-1040 or schedule a consultation with our tax professionals to go over your options and receive further information.
